This bill amends the existing law governing toll rates for the New Hampshire turnpike system to support the funding of projects outlined in the 2027-2036 ten-year transportation plan. It introduces provisions that empower the commissioner of transportation, with the governor and council's approval, to set toll rates and charges for the turnpike system. The bill mandates that all tolls collected be deposited into a dedicated account for the turnpike's operating expenses, construction, reconstruction, and maintenance. Additionally, it stipulates that if this account lacks sufficient funds for bond payments, the governor must utilize the highway fund or the state's general fund, with a requirement for reimbursement from future toll collections.

The bill specifies new toll rates for various vehicle classifications at multiple turnpike plazas, effective January 1, 2027, with increases for cash transactions and vehicles not on a funded New Hampshire E-Z Pass account. For example, tolls at the Hooksett Main plaza will range from $2.00 for Class 2 vehicles to $7.50 for Class 12 vehicles, while E-ZPass holders will benefit from significantly lower rates. The bill also mandates the issuance of free New Hampshire E-ZPass transponders for 210 days to individuals who open or maintain a funded account. Furthermore, it repeals RSA 237:11, V, which previously provided an E-Z Pass discount on established tolls. The estimated fiscal impact includes a projected revenue increase for the Turnpike Fund, reaching $27.7 million in FY 2027 and $56.8 million by FY 2029, with initial expenditures of approximately $232,960 for software updates and transponder issuance.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 237:9, 237:11
As Amended by the Senate: 237:9, 228:99, 237:11
As Amended by the House: 237:9, 237:11
Version adopted by both bodies: 237:9, 237:11
SB627 text: 237:9, 237:11